In Nigeria, few foods are as universally loved as fried ripe plantains, or dodo and beans. The caramel-like taste of fried ripe plantains is a culinary delight, often paired with beans cooked in palm kernel oil.
However, an ongoing online conversation has sparked debate about the health implications of this beloved Nigerian dish.
Kemi Lopsam, a natural health doctor and acupuncturist based in Akure, brought this discussion to light back in 2019 on the Newsroom website.
According to Lopsam, the combination of beans and ripe plantains raises concerns about its impact on health, particularly when plantains are ripe.
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The Acidic Combination
Lopsam’s argument hinges on the acidity of the combination. Ripe plantains are fruits, and the process of frying them can turn fructose into acid. She points out that many health issues stem from excessive acidity in the body, including heart problems, ulcers, and gastrointestinal reflux.
While beans are naturally acid-forming, they also contribute to achieving a balanced pH level of acidity and alkalinity in the body. The key, Lopsam suggests, is giving beans enough time to digest properly. However, it’s worth noting that some individuals may be allergic to beans and should avoid them altogether.
Digestion Disparity
One of the main issues Lopsam raises is the difference in digestion time between beans and ripe plantains. Beans can take anywhere from five to seven hours to fully digest and exit the stomach, while ripe plantains typically require only three hours. Fruits are primarily digested in the terminal ileum rather than the stomach, where foods are digested.
Ripe plantains don’t rely on pancreatic enzymes for digestion, unlike beans. When combined, the plantains struggle to exit the stomach and reach the terminal ileum, hindered by the presence of beans. This prolonged struggle can lead to fermentation, a process associated with various health problems. Lopsam even suggests that consuming plantains raw may be a better option.
Consideration of Oil Quality
The healthiness of fried plantains is also contingent on the type of oil used for frying. According to Healthline, “fried plantains aren’t exactly a healthy choice if fried in unhealthy oil.” Therefore, the quality of the oil significantly impacts the overall healthiness of the dish.
Caloric and Nutritional Concerns
Another aspect worth considering is the nutritional content of plantains. As per the United States Department of Agriculture, plantain chips are high in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. Excessive consumption of these chips can lead to weight gain and various health issues.
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Bisina Somto is an entertainment journalist known for her compelling movie, music, and Reality TV show reviews.
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